OSCE Media Freedom Representative condemns arrest of Sputnik journalists in Turkey, calls for their protection

VIENNA, 1 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, condemned today’s detention of the Editor-in-Chief of Sputnik Turkey and three other Sputnik journalists working in Turkey.

According to reports, the Editor-in-Chief of Sputnik’s Turkey outlet, Mahir Boztepe, was detained and taken to the General Directorate of Security this morning in Istanbul, after the authorities searched his office. Earlier in the day, three Sputnik journalists based in Ankara were also detained in relation to an article they wrote. They were threatened, and had their houses attacked, by a group of protesters during the night of 29 February, in Ankara. All the journalists were subsequently released after being questioned by the authorities.                                            

“I condemn the detention of the Editor-in-Chief of Sputnik’s Turkey service, Mahir Boztepe, and three other Sputnik journalists earlier today,” said Désir. “This represents a significant encroachment on freedom of expression and media freedom in the country. It is paramount that the authorities ensure the safety of foreign correspondents at all times, including during conflicts.”

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.